Compositions and methods for treating hair

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are hair styling compositions comprising at least two latex polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one latex polyurethane polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. Methods of styling the hair are also disclosed.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure relates to hair styling compositions comprising at least two latex polymers, wherein at least one latex polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. The at least two latex polymers are chosen from polyurethane polymers. In various embodiments of the disclosure, the at least two latex polymers are chosen to have certain properties. Compositions comprising the at least two latex polymers and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers may, according to certain embodiments, form films that have surprising properties. Methods of styling the hair with such compositions are also disclosed.

BACKGROUND

Compositions for styling the hair are known, such as, for example, hair spray compositions, hair gels and mousses, hair volumizing compositions, hair smoothing creams, lotions, serums, oils, clays, etc. The goals of many hair styling compositions include to hold or fix the hair in a particular shape, to impart or increase volume of the hair, and/or to smooth the hair, e.g. to decrease or eliminate the appearance of frizz.

Drawbacks associated with current products for styling the hair include that the product is often sticky or tacky and/or often produces a film that imparts a sticky or tacky feel, and styled hair that is stiff and/or “crunchy” (i.e. the film is hard and brittle resulting in a crunching feel or sound when the hair is touched), which is undesirable for most consumers.

Current products for styling the hair typically include water soluble film-forming polymers. Depending on the chemical make-up of these polymers, they may be either soluble in water, or they may be water insoluble polymers which are made water soluble via various chemical modifications, such as neutralization. Solutions comprising these polymers tend to be viscous, i.e. as the concentration of the polymer increases, its viscosity builds up rapidly. Translated to styling applications, as the solvent evaporates, the polymer solution becomes thicker on the hair surface, resulting in a sticky or tacky film. These products also tend to exhibit problems with product spreadability, hair manageability, and low degree of humidity resistance which is particularly a problem in hot and humid countries.

The use of latex polymers is also known, for example, to provide extended-wear properties to a cosmetic product (e.g. mascara, eyeliner, nail polish) into which they are formulated.

Some known compositions include one latex polymer. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,126,929 describes a composition comprising a dispersion of a latex film former, optionally with a plasticizer, and a non film-forming particle not capable of being film-formed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,710,374 describes a composition comprising cationic polymers, a surfactant, and an anionic latex. U.S. Pat. No. 7,740,832 describes a composition comprising at least one non-latex polymer and an anionic, cationic or amphoteric fixing polymer. U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,721 describes a composition comprising a latex particle. U.S. Patent Application No. 2005/0089490 A1 describes a composition comprising a water-dispersible styling polymer and a gel-forming polymer.

Other known cosmetic compositions include various components to provide improved properties such as adhesion, flexibility, and compatibility of other components. For example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2007/0224140 A1 describes a composition comprising a cosmetically acceptable medium, a non film-forming microsphere to provide adhesion, and a film-forming component comprising two water-borne emulsion polymers. French Patent Application No. FR 2 968 978A describes an eyeliner composition comprising at least two film-forming latexes and a plasticizer to increase the flexibility of the film. French Patent Application No. FR 2 898 050A describes a composition comprising a fatty acid ester, and a copolymer of a (meth)acrylate polymer and a hydroxyester(meth)acrylate. U.S. Patent Application No. 2009/0297467A describes a composition comprising at least one neutralized sulfonated polymer and mixtures of acrylates and hydroxyester acrylates. U.S. Patent Application No. 2009/035335 A1 describes a mascara composition comprising two water-dispersible acrylate polymers, and a cross-linked polymeric film-former to enhance the compatibility and bind the two water-dispersible acrylate polymers. International Patent Application No. WO 2011/137338 A2 describes a composition comprising a polyurethane dispersion and an acrylic film-forming dispersion. U.S. Patent Application No. 2004/0071646A describes an aerosol device containing a composition comprising a polyurethane dispersion having a particle size of from 0.1-1 μm, and at least one non-latex fixing polymer.

Additionally, some cosmetic compositions incorporate polymers having a core-shell structure. For example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2003/0064045 A1 describes a mascara composition comprising a dispersion of particles having a core-shell structure. U.S. Patent Application No. 2007/0286833 A1 describes a multistage polymer comprising a latex core-shell particle comprising a soft polymer and a hard polymer. In addition, U.S. Patent Application No. 2009/0317432A describes an applicator for makeup containing a composition comprising a colorant and at least one latex or core-shell latex particle.

Cosmetic compositions in a non-aqueous medium are known. For example, European Patent Application No. EP 1 082 953A describes a dispersion comprising two film formers in isododecane. International Patent Application No. Wo11056332A describes a composition comprising three volatile solvents, and at least one film former, for example silicon acrylate or acrylate, soluble or dispersible in at least one of the three solvents.

Compositions for use in mascaras may have low glass transition temperatures (“Tg”) to obtain a soft film. For example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2010/0028284 A1 describes a mascara composition comprising at least two acrylate film formers, where the glass transition temperature (“Tg”) of the mascara composition is ≦20° C. U.S. Patent Application No. 2006/134043A describes a mascara composition comprising a fatty acid and at least one acrylate resin emulsion.

Some known compositions use solubilized polymers rather than polymer particles. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,651,693 describes a composition comprising a solubilized blend of two polymers. U.S. Pat. No. 6,214,328 describes a composition comprising at least one acrylate latex that is soluble in solutions containing low volatile organic compounds or in water upon neutralization.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,441,728 describes a composition comprising a water-soluble fixative polymer and a latex particle. Water-soluble polymers tend to be sticky, and may not be suitable for applications requiring a clean touch.

French Patent Application No. FR 2 834 458A describes a nail polish composition comprising two film formers in an aqueous medium in a specific ratio.

However, it has now been discovered that by providing a composition comprising at least two latex polymers chosen from polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one of said latex polymers is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers, it is possible to form a film on a substrate that has certain desirable properties, such as a clean, natural, and/or “invisible” feel, and a lack of stickiness. Such compositions may be useful in hair-styling applications wherein styling benefits such as a natural look, curling or straightening, and styling hold are imparted to hair.

Moreover, compositions according to embodiments of the disclosure may be prepared that deliver a surprisingly broad range of hair styling benefits, such as, for example, from low to high style-hold and curl-retention properties, for example by varying the weight ratio between both latex polyurethane polymers, with or without additives.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The disclosure relates, in various embodiments, to compositions comprising at least two latex polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one latex polyurethane polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. In various embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers may be chosen to have certain properties. In at least certain embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition. In further embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in the composition in a weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1:10.

The composition comprising the at least two latex polyurethane polymers and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers forms a film when applied to a substrate. In at least certain exemplary embodiments according to the disclosure, the resulting film formed by the composition comprising at least two latex polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one latex polymer is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers, is clear and/or transparent.

In further embodiments, methods of styling the hair are disclosed, said methods comprising applying compositions according to the disclosure to the hair. Such styling methods may comprise shaping, reshaping, positioning, repositioning, adding volume to, curling, or straightening the hair, in order to achieve a certain hair style or appearance.

Latex Polymers

According to various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, the at least two latex polymers, at least one of which is a film-forming polymer, may be chosen from polyurethane polymers. The at least two latex polyurethane polymers may be present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition. In other embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers may be present in the composition in a weight ratio of about 10:1 to about 1:10.

In various embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers may be identified as polymer A and polymer B. Compositions according to certain embodiments may comprise at least one polymer A and at least one polymer B, wherein both polymer A and polymer B are film-forming polymers. In additional embodiments, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers may be chosen from polymers A, B, and C, wherein polymers A and B are film-forming polymers and polymer C is not a film-forming polymer. At least one of the latex polymers is chosen to be a film-forming polymer, for instance, various combinations of A and A; B and B; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C, and the like may be used.

In various embodiments, polymer A may be chosen from latex polyurethane polymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; and polymer B may be chosen from latex polyurethane polymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%. In at least certain embodiments, polymer A may have a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from about −90° C. to about 40° C., and polymer B may have a glass transition temperature (Tg) ranging from about 40° C. to about 200° C. In at least certain other embodiments, the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B in the compositions of the disclosure is from about 1:10 to about 1:1, from about 3:1 to about 10:1, or from about 5:1 to about 10:1.

In at least certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, latex polyurethane polymers A and B may be chosen such that polymer A comprises at least one latex polyurethane polymer that is a relatively soft, flexible latex polymer, and polymer B comprises at least one latex polyurethane polymer that is a relatively hard, brittle polymer, although such characteristics are not required.

As used herein, a film-forming polymer is meant to include a polymer that is capable, by itself or in the presence of an auxiliary film-forming agent, of forming a macroscopically continuous film that adheres to keratin materials, and preferably a cohesive film, better still, a film whose cohesion and mechanical properties are such that said film can be isolated and manipulated individually, for example, when said film is prepared by pouring onto a non-stick surface such as Teflon-coated or silicone-coated surface. In addition, as used herein, a non-film-forming polymer is meant to include a polymer which will not form a film at ambient temperature or below, or in other words, will only form a film at temperatures above ambient. For purposes of this disclosure, ambient temperature is taken as being below 40° C. such as in the range of 15° C. to 30° C.

By “at least two latex polyurethane polymers,” it is contemplated that more than two latex polyurethane polymers may be chosen. Thus, for example, in various embodiments, the composition may comprise polymers A and/or B, which are latex film-forming polyurethane polymers, and the composition may also comprise at least one latex polymer C that is a non-film-forming polyurethane polymer; and so on.

In further embodiments, the composition comprises exactly two latex polyurethane polymers, at least one of which is a film-forming polymer. According to additional embodiments, the composition comprises exactly two latex polyurethane polymers, both of which are film-forming polymers. In yet further embodiments, the composition comprises at least two latex polyurethane polymers, one or both of which are film-forming polymers, but does not comprise any additional film-forming polymers.

In at least certain embodiments of the disclosure, the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are provided in the form of aqueous dispersions prior to formulating the compositions of the disclosure. In various embodiments, the aqueous dispersions may be obtained through an emulsion polymerization of monomers wherein the resulting latex polymers have a particle size lower than about 1 μm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a dispersion prepared by the polymerization in water of one or more monomers having a polymerizable double bond may be chosen. In another exemplary embodiment, the aqueous dispersions obtained through an emulsion polymerization may be spray-dried.

In other embodiments, the latex polymers are produced from condensation reactions between monomers and subsequently dispersed in an aqueous medium.

Thus, the latex polyurethane polymers may, in various exemplary embodiments, exist as dispersed polymer particles in a dispersion medium, such as an aqueous dispersion medium. The latex polyurethane polymers may, in certain embodiments, each be dispersed in independent dispersion media. In yet further embodiments, the latex polyurethane polymer may be dispersed together in the same dispersion medium.

The dispersion medium comprises at least one solvent chosen from water. The dispersion medium may further comprise at least one solvent chosen from cosmetically acceptable organic solvents. Cosmetically acceptable organic solvents may, in various embodiments, be water-miscible, e.g. capable of forming at 25° C. a homogeneous mixture that is transparent, or substantially transparent, to the eye. For instance, cosmetically acceptable organic solvents may be chosen from lower monoalcohols, such as those containing from about 1 to 5 carbon atoms, for example ethanol and isopropanol; polyols, including glycols, such as those containing from about 2 to 8 carbon atoms, for example propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, and glycerin; hydrocarbons, such as, for example, isododecane and mineral oil; and silicones, such as dimethicones, cyclomethicones, and cyclopentasiloxane; as well as mixtures thereof.

In at least one embodiment, the solvent of the dispersion medium consists of water. In other embodiments, the solvent of the dispersion medium consists of water and at least one cosmetically acceptable organic solvent. In further embodiments, the solvent comprises water. In yet further embodiments, the solvent of the dispersion medium primarily comprises water. For example, the solvent of the dispersion medium may, in at least certain exemplary embodiments, comprise greater than 50% water, such as greater than 55% water, greater than 60% water, greater than 65% water, greater than 70% water, greater than 75% water, greater than 80% water, greater than 85% water, greater than 90% water, greater than 95% water, greater than 96% water, greater than 97% water, greater than 98% water, or greater than 99% water.

In embodiments according to the disclosure, the latex polyurethane polymer particles are not soluble in the solvent of the dispersion medium, i.e. are not water soluble and/or are not soluble in the at least one cosmetically acceptable organic solvent. Accordingly, the latex polyurethane polymers retain their particulate form in the solvent or solvents chosen.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, latex particles according to the disclosure may have an average diameter ranging up to about 1000 nm, such as from about 50 nm to about 800 nm, or from about 100 nm to about 500 nm. Such particle sizes may be measured with a laser granulometer (e.g. Brookhaven BI90).

In various embodiments, the latex polyurethane polymers may, independently, be neutralized, partially neutralized, or unneutralized. In exemplary embodiments where the latex polymers are neutralized or partially neutralized, the particle size may be, for example, greater than about 800 nm. In at least certain embodiments, the particulate form of the latex polyurethane polymers is retained in the dispersion medium.

In further embodiments, the latex polyurethane polymers may be chosen from uncharged and charged latex polymers. Thus, the latex polyurethane polymers may, according to various exemplary embodiments, be chosen from nonionic latex polymers, cationic latex polymers, and anionic latex polymers.

As non-limiting examples of latex polyurethane polymers that may be used, mention may be made, independently, of aqueous polyurethane dispersions comprising the reaction products of (i), (ii), and/or (iii), defined below.

Reaction product (i) may be any prepolymer according to the formula:

wherein R1 is chosen from bivalent radicals of a dihydroxyl functional compound, R2 is chosen from hydrocarbon radicals of an aliphatic or cycloaliphatic polyisocyanate, and R3 is chosen from radicals of a low molecular weight diol, optionally substituted with ionic groups, n ranges from about 0 to about 5, and m is greater than about 1.

Suitable dihydroxyl compounds for providing the bivalent radical R1 include those having at least two hydroxy groups, and having number average molecular weights ranging from about 700 to about 16,000, such as, for example, from about 750 to about 5000. Non-limiting examples of the high molecular weight compounds include polyester polyols, polyether polyols, polyhydroxy polycarbonates, polyhydroxy polyacetals, polyhydroxy polyacrylates, polyhydroxy polyester amides, polyhydroxy polyalkadienes and polyhydroxy polythioethers. In various embodiments, polyester polyols, polyether polyols, and polyhydroxy polycarbonates may be chosen. Mixtures of such compounds are also within the scope of the disclosure.

The polyester diol(s) may optionally be prepared from aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, or aromatic dicarboxylic or polycarboxylic acids, or anhydrides thereof; and dihydric alcohols such as diols chosen from aliphatic, alicyclic, or aromatic diols.

The aliphatic dicarboxylic or polycarboxylic acids may be chosen from, for example: succinic, fumaric, glutaric, 2,2-dimethylglutaric, adipic, itaconic, pimelic, suberic, azelaic, sebacic, maleic, malonic, 2,2-dimethylmalonic, nonanedicarboxylic, decanedicarboxylic, dodecanedioic, 1,3-cyclohexanedicarboxylic, 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic, 2,5-norbornanedicarboxylic, diglycolic, thiodipropionic, 2,5-naphthalenedicarboxylic, 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic, phthalic, terephthalic, isophthalic, oxanic, o-phthalic, tetrahydrophthalic, hexahydrophthalic or trimellitic acid.

The acid anhydrides may, in further exemplary embodiments, be chosen from o-phthalic, trimellitic or succinic acid anhydride or a mixture thereof. By way of non-limiting example only, the dicarboxylic acid may be adipic acid.

The dihydric alcohols may be chosen from, for example, ethanediol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, trimethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,2-propanediol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, tetrapropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 2,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-propanediol, 1,4-dihydroxycyclohexane, 1,4-dimethylolcyclohexane, cyclohexanedimethanol, 1,8-octanediol, 1,10-decanediol, 1,12-dodecanediol, neopentyl glycol, and mixtures thereof. The cycloaliphatic and/or aromatic dihydroxyl compounds may also be suitable as the dihydric alcohol(s) for the preparation of the polyester polyol(s).

The polyester diols may also be chosen from homopolymers or copolymers of lactones, which are, in at least certain embodiments, obtained by addition reactions of lactones or lactone mixtures, such as butyrolactone, ε-caprolactone and/or methyl-ε-caprolactone with the appropriate polyfunctional, e.g. difunctional, starter molecules such as, for example, the dihydric alcohols mentioned above. The corresponding polymers of ε-caprolactone may be chosen in at least some embodiments.

The polyester polyol, e.g. polyester diol, radical R1, may be obtained by polycondensation of dicarboxylic acids, such as adipic acid, with polyols, e.g. diols, such as hexanediol, neopentyl glycol, and mixtures thereof.

The polycarbonates containing hydroxyl groups comprise those known per se, such as the products obtained by reacting diols, such as (1,3)-propanediol, (1,4)-butanediol and/or (1,6)-hexanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, or tetraethylene glycol with diaryl carbonates, for example diphenyl carbonate or phosgene.

Optional polyether polyols may be obtained in any known manner by reacting starting compounds which contain reactive hydrogen atoms with alkylene oxides, such as, for example, ethylene oxide; propylene oxide; butylene oxide; styrene oxide; tetrahydrofuran; or epichlorohydrin, or with mixtures of these alkylene oxides. In at least certain embodiments, the polyethers do not contain more than about 10% by weight of ethylene oxide units. For example, polyethers obtained without addition of ethylene oxide may be chosen.

Polyethers modified with vinyl polymers are also suitable according to various embodiments of the disclosure. Products of this type can be obtained by polymerization, for example, of styrene and acrylonitrile in the presence of polyethers, for example as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,383,351; 3,304,273; 3,523,095; 3,110,695; and German patent 1 152 536.

Among the polythioethers which may be chosen include the condensation products obtained from thiodiglycol per se and/or with other glycols, dicarboxylic acids, formaldehyde, aminocarboxylic acids, and/or amino alcohols. The products obtained are either mixed polythioethers, polythioether esters, or polythioether ester amides, depending on the co-components.

Optional polyacetals include but are not limited to the compounds which can be prepared from aldehydes, for example formaldehyde, and from glycols, such as diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, ethoxylated 4,4′-(dihydroxy)diphenyl-dimethylmethane, and (1,6)-hexanediol. Polyacetals useful according to various non-limiting embodiments of the disclosure can also be prepared by polymerization of cyclic acetals.

Optional polyhydroxy polyesteramides and polyamines include, for example, the mainly linear condensation products obtained from saturated or unsaturated, polybasic carboxylic acids or anhydrides thereof, and from saturated or unsaturated, polyvalent amino alcohols, from diamines, or from polyamines, as well as mixtures thereof.

Optional monomers for the production of polyacrylates having hydroxyl functionality comprise acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, crotonic acid, maleic anhydride, 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl acrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate, 3-hydroxypropyl acrylate, 3-hydroxypropyl methacrylate, glycidyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, 2-isocyanatoethyl acrylate, and 2-isocyanatoethyl methacrylate.

Mixtures of dihydroxy compounds can also be chosen.

Optional polyisocyanates for providing the hydrocarbon-based radical R2 include, for example, organic diisocyanates having a molecular weight ranging from about 100 to about 1500, such as about 112 to about 1000, or about 140 to about 400.

Optional diisocyanates are those chosen from the general formula R₂(NCO)₂, in which R₂ represents a divalent aliphatic hydrocarbon group comprising from about 4 to 18 carbon atoms, a divalent cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon group comprising from about 5 to 15 carbon atoms, a divalent araliphatic hydrocarbon group comprising from about 7 to 15 carbon atoms, or a divalent aromatic hydrocarbon group comprising from about 6 to 15 carbon atoms. Examples of the organic diisocyanates which may be chosen include, but are not limited to, tetramethylene diisocyanate, 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, dodecamethylene diisocyanate, cyclohexane-1,3-diisocyanate and cyclohexane-1,4-diisocyanate, 1-isocyanato-3-isocyanatomethyl-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexane (isophorone diisocyanate or IPDI), bis(4-isocyanatocyclohexyl)-methane, 1,3-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane and 1,4-bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane and bis(4-isocyanato-3-methylcyclohexyl)methane. Mixtures of diisocyanates can also be used.

In at least certain embodiments, diisocyanates are chosen from aliphatic and cycloaliphatic diisocyanates. For example, 1,6-hexamethylene diisocyanate, isophorone diisocyanate, and dicyclohexylmethane diisocyanate, as well as mixtures thereof may be chosen.

The use of diols, for example low molecular weight diols, R3, may in at least certain embodiments allow a stiffening of the polymer chain. The expression “low molecular weight diols” means diols having a molecular weight ranging from about 50 to about 800, such as about 60 to 700, or about 62 to 200. They may, in various embodiments, contain aliphatic, alicyclic, or aromatic groups. In certain exemplary embodiments, the compounds contain only aliphatic groups. The diols that may be chosen may optionally have up to about 20 carbon atoms, and may be chosen, for example, from ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propane-1,2-diol, propane-1,3-diol, butane-1,4-diol, 1,3-butylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, butylethylpropanediol, cyclohexanediol, 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol, hexane-1,6-diol, bisphenol A (2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane), hydrogenated bisphenol A (2,2-bis(4-hydroxycyclohexyl)-propane), and mixtures thereof. For example, R3 may be derived from neopentyl glycol.

Optionally, the low molecular weight diols may contain ionic or potentially ionic groups. Suitable low molecular weight diols containing ionic or potentially ionic groups may be chosen from those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,412,054. In various embodiments, compounds may be chosen from dimethylol-butanoic acid (DMBA), dimethylolpropionic acid (DMPA), and carboxyl-containing caprolactone polyester diol. If low molecular weight diols containing ionic or potentially ionic groups are chosen, they may, for example, be used in an amount such that less than about 0.30 meq of —COOH is present per gram of polyurethane in the polyurethane dispersion. In at least certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, the low molecular weight diols containing ionic or potentially ionic groups are not used.

Reaction product (ii) may be chosen from at least one chain extender according to the formula:

H2N—R4-NH2

wherein R4 is chosen from alkylene or alkylene oxide radicals, said radicals not being substituted with ionic or potentially ionic groups.

Reaction product (ii) may optionally be chosen from alkylene diamines, such as hydrazine, ethylenediamine, propylenediamine, 1,4-butylenediamine and piperazine; and alkylene oxide diamines such as dipropylamine diethylene glycol (DPA-DEG available from Tomah Products, Milton, Wis.), 2-methyl-1,5-pentanediamine (Dytec A from DuPont), hexanediamine, isophoronediamine, and 4,4-methylenedi(cyclohexylamine), and the DPA-series of ether amines available from Tomah Products, Milton, Wis., including dipropylamine propylene glycol, dipropylamine dipropylene glycol, dipropylamine tripropylene glycol, dipropylamine poly(propylene glycol), dipropylamine ethylene glycol, dipropylamine poly(ethylene glycol), dipropylamine 1,3-propanediol, dipropylamine 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol, dipropylamine 1,4-butanediol, dipropylamine 1,3-butanediol, dipropylamine 1,6-hexanediol and dipropylamine cyclohexane-1,4-dimethanol, and mixtures thereof.

Reaction product (iii) may be chosen from at least one chain extender according to the formula:

H2N—R5-NH2

wherein R5 is chosen from alkylene radicals substituted with ionic or potentially ionic groups. In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the compounds may have an ionic or potentially ionic group and two isocyanate-reactive groups.

As used herein, ionic or potentially ionic groups may include groups comprising ternary or quaternary ammonium groups, groups convertible into such groups, carboxyl groups, carboxylate groups, sulphonic acid groups, and sulphonate groups. At least partial conversion of the groups convertible into salt groups of the type mentioned may take place before or during the mixing with water. Specific compounds include diaminosulphonates, such as for example the sodium salt of N-(2-aminoethyl)-2-aminoethanesulphonic acid (AAS) or the sodium salt of N-(2-aminoethyl)-2-aminopropionic acid.

In at least certain embodiments, R5 represents an alkylene radical substituted with sulphonic acid or sulphonate groups. By way of example only, the compound is chosen from sodium salts of N-(2-aminoethyl)-2-aminoethanesulphonic acid.

By way of non-limiting example, such latexes include, but are not limited to, aqueous polyurethane dispersions comprising a reaction product of a prepolymer comprising a dihydroxyl compound, a polyisocyanate, and a low molecular weight diol and at least two diamine compounds and wherein the composition is substantially free of triethanolamine stearate such as, for example, those sold under the BAYCUSAN® name by Bayer such as, for example, BAYCUSAN® C1000 (INCI name: Polyurethane-34), BAYCUSAN® C1001 (INCI name: Polyurethane-34), BAYCUSAN® C1003 (INCI name: Polyurethane-32), BAYCUSAN® C1004 (INCI name: Polyurethane-35) and BAYCUSAN® C1008 (INCI name: Polyurethane-48). In various exemplary embodiments, polyurethane latexes may be chosen from, but are not limited to, aqueous polyurethane dispersion of Isophthalic Acid/Adipic Acid/Hexylene Glycol/Neopentyl glycol/Dimethylolpropanoic Acid/Isophorone Diisocyanate copolymer (INCI name: Polyurethane-1, such as LUVISET® P.U.R, BASF), aliphatic polyurethane and aliphatic polyester polyurethane (such as the NEOREZ® series, DSM, such as NEOREZ® R989, INCI name: Polycarbamyl Polyglycon Ester).

In various embodiments according to the disclosure, it may be possible to choose a polymer that comprises both acrylate and polyurethane parts at the molecular level.

Coalescing Agents and Plasticizers

The compositions according to various embodiments of the disclosure comprise at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the addition of coalescing agents and/or plasticizers may lower the glass transition temperature (Tg), decrease the Young's modulus, and increase the strain of latex polymers and/or the films formed by latex polymers. Further, the at least one coalescing agent and/or plasticizer may also be used to aid coating formation of the latex film to form a continuous and homogeneous film or coating and to improve adhesion. While the lowering of the Tg of the latex polymers can result in a softening of the film or coating formed by the latex polymers, it has been found that the coating or film produced on hair treated with the compositions of the disclosure surprisingly and unexpectedly imparts a strong styling hold to the hair while leaving the hair with a natural/clean feel and look. As such, the flexibility and stiffness of the resulting film or coating may be more balanced, and thus impart a better style and stronger hold to hair.

Non-limiting examples of coalescing agents and/or plasticizers that may be used according to various embodiments include glycols and their derivatives, such as glycol ethers, for example, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol ethyl ether, diethylene glycol methyl ether, diethylene glycol butyl ether, diethylene glycol hexyl ether, diethylene glycol dibutyl ether, ethylene glycol methyl ether, ethylene glycol ethyl ether, ethylene glycol butyl ether, and ethylene glycol hexyl ether; glycol esters, such as diethylene glycol butyl ether acetate, propylene glycol dibenzoate and dipropylene glycol dibenzoate; cellulose esters, such as sucrose acetate; propylene glycol derivatives, such as propylene glycol phenyl ether, propylene glycol diacetate, dipropylene glycol butyl ether, tripropylene glycol butyl ether, propylene glycol methyl ether, dipropylene glycol ethyl ether, tripropylene glycol methyl ether and diethylene glycol methyl ether, and propylene glycol butyl ether.

According to further embodiments, acid esters, for example carboxylic acid esters, may be chosen. Non-limiting examples include acetates, such as glycerol triacetate; citrates, such as triethyl citrate, tributyl citrate, triethyl acetylcitrate, tributyl acetylcitrate and tri(2-ethylhexyl)acetylcitrate; phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, dimethoxyethyl phthalate, butyl phthalate, and 2-ethylhexyl phthalate; phosphates, such as tricresyl phosphate, tributyl phosphate, triphenyl phosphate and tributoxyethyl phosphate; tartrates, such as dibutyl tartrate; and sebacates, such as dimethyl sebacate and dibutyl sebacate.

Furthermore, fatty acid esters, such as adipic acid esters, may be chosen. Non-limiting examples include diisobutyl adipate and diethyl adipate. Stearic acid esters, such as ethyl stearate, and palmitic acid esters, such as 2-ethylhexyl palmitate, succinates, abietates, caprylates, caproates, enanthates, and myristates may also be chosen.

In further embodiments, the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers may be chosen from carbonates, such as ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate; benzyl benzoate, sucrose benzoate, butyl acetylricinoleate, glyceryl acetylricinoleate, butyl glycolate, camphor, N-ethyl-o,p-toluenesulphonamide, and ethyl tosylamide.

In yet further embodiments, oxyethylenated derivatives, such as oxyethylenated oils, may be chosen, for example, vegetable oil, castor oil, oils of natural origin, including non-drying oils and those comprising at least one fatty acid chosen from caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, ricinoleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, brassidic acid, cetoleic acid, lignoceric acid and nervonic acid. In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the oils are chosen from triglycerides composed of esters of fatty acids and of glycerol, of which the fatty acids have varied chain lengths from C4 to C24 that can be linear or branched and saturated or unsaturated. Non-limiting examples of oils include heptanoic or octanoic triglycerides, groundnut, babassu, coconut, grape seed, cottonseed, maize, maize germ, mustard seed, palm, rapeseed, sesame, soybean, sunflower, wheat germ, canola, apricot, mango, castor, shea, avocado, olive, sweet almond, almond, peach, walnut, hazelnut, macadamia, jojoba, alfalfa, poppy, pumpkinseed, cucumber, blackcurrant, evening primrose, millet, barley, guinea, rye, safflower, candlenut, passionflower, musk rose or shea butter oils or triglycerides of caprylic/capric acids. In yet further exemplary embodiments, the oils may be chosen from alcohols such as hexanol and benzyl alcohol.

In preferred embodiments, the coalescing agents and/or plasticizers that may be used in the compositions of the disclosure include propylene glycol dibenzoate, available under the tradename, Lexfeel® Shine from the company Inolex, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, available under the tradename, DERMOL DPG-2b from the company Alzo, and propylene glycol butyl ether, available under the tradename, DOWANOL™ PnB from the company Dow Chemical.

It should be understood that mixtures of the above agents may be used according to various embodiments.

Compositions

As described herein, exemplary compositions according to the disclosure may comprise at least two latex polymers chosen from polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one of the latex polyurethane polymers is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers.

In certain embodiments, each of the latex polyurethane polymers is present in an amount ranging from about 0.05% to about 10% by weight, such as about 0.1% to about 7.5% by weight, such as about 0.25% to about 5% by weight, such as about 0.5% to about 2.5% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 1.5% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges there between. In other embodiments, each of the latex polyurethane polymers is present in an amount ranging from about 1% to about 15% by weight, such as about 1% to about 12% by weight, such as about 1.2% to about 12% by weight, such as about 1.5% to about 10% by weight, or such as less than about 10% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges there between. In yet other embodiments, each of the latex polyurethane polymers is present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, such as about 0.15% to about 1.9% by weight, or such as about 0.18% to about 1.8% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges there between.

In certain embodiments, the latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, such as about 0.1% to about 25% by weight, such as about 0.2% to about 20% by weight, such as about 0.2% to about 15% by weight, such as about 0.5% to about 10% by weight, such as about 1% to about 8% by weight, such as about 1% to about 5% by weight, such as about 1% to about 3% by weight, or such as below about 30% by weight, or such as about 25% by weight, or such as about 20% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition, including all ranges and subranges there between. By way of non-limiting example, the combined amount of latex polyurethane polymers may be about 0.1%, about 0.5%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, about 21%, about 22%, about 23%, about 24%, about 25%, about 26%, about 27%, about 28%, about 29%, or about 30%, by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.

In yet further embodiments, the combined amount of latex polyurethane polymers ranges up to about 30%, such as up to about 29%, such as up to about 28%, such as up to about 27%, such as up to about 26%, such as up to about 25%, such as up to about 24%, such as up to about 23%, such as up to about 22%, such as up to about 21%, such as up to about 20%, such as up to about 19%, up to about 18%, up to about 17%, up to about 16%, up to about 15%, up to about 14%, up to about 13%, up to about 12%, up to about 11%, up to about 10%, up to about 10%, up to about 9%, up to about 8%, up to about 7%, up to about 6%, up to about 5%, up to about 4%, up to about 3%, up to about 2%, or up to about 1%, each by weight, relative to the weight of the composition. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the combined amount of latex polyurethane polymers is less than about 10% by weight, such as less than about 5% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the weight ratio of the at least two latex polyurethane polymers, e.g. polymer A to polymer B, may range from about 10:1 to about 1:10, such as about 9:1 to about 1:9, about 8:1 to about 1:8, about 7:1 to about 1:7, about 6:1 to about 1:6, about 5:1 to about 1:5, about 4:1 to about 1:4, about 3:1 to about 1:3, or about 2:1 to about 1:2, including all ranges and subranges there between.

According to various embodiments of the disclosure, the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B is about 10:1, about 9:1, about 8:1, about 7:1, about 6:1, about 5:1, 4:1, about 3:1, about 2:1, about 1:1, about 1:2, about 1:3, about 1:4, about 1:5, about 1:6, about 1:7, about 1:8, about 1:9, or about 1:10.

In at least certain exemplary and non-limiting embodiments, when polymer A is chosen from latex polymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; and polymer B is chosen from latex polymers having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%, different weight ratios of polymer A to polymer B may be chosen to correspond to different hair styling applications. By way of example only, a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging from about 1:10 to about 1:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a high level of style hold; a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging from about 5:1 to about 10:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a medium to high level of style hold; and a weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranging from about 3:1 to about 10:1 may, in some embodiments, provide a light to medium level of style hold.

According to various embodiments, the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, such as from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight, or from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the composition. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers ranges from about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, and in a further exemplary embodiment from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the composition.

In addition to the at least two latex polyurethane polymers, wherein at least one is a film-forming polymer, and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers, the compositions may further comprise at least one solvent. The at least one solvent may be chosen from water, at least one cosmetically acceptable organic solvent, or a mixture of water and at least one cosmetically acceptable organic solvent. Cosmetically acceptable organic solvents may, in various embodiments, be water-miscible, e.g. a mixture capable of forming at 25° C. a homogeneous mixture that is transparent, or substantially transparent, to the eye. For instance, cosmetically acceptable organic solvents may be chosen from lower monoalcohols, such as those containing from about 1 to 5 carbon atoms, for example ethanol and isopropanol; polyols, including glycols, such as those containing from about 2 to 8 carbon atoms, for example propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, hexylene glycol, and glycerin; hydrocarbons, such as, for example, isododecane and mineral oil; and silicones, such as dimethicones, cyclomethicones, and cyclopentasiloxane; as well as mixtures thereof.

The at least one solvent may be present in an amount ranging up to about 95%, such as from about 1% to about 90%, from about 5% to about 80%, or from about 10% to about 60% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the latex polyurethane polymer particles are not soluble in the solvent of the composition, and thus remain in particulate form even after evaporation of the solvent. For example, in embodiments where the composition comprises alcohol as a cosmetically acceptable organic solvent, the latex particles may remain in particulate form upon evaporation of the alcohol, such as once the composition is applied to a substrate.

Compositions according to various embodiments of the disclosure may further comprise additional components that are typically used in hair styling compositions. Such components are known to those of skill in the art, or are within the ability of those of skill in the art to determine depending on the particular application, such as, for example, the particular component and/or amount thereof. Such components include, but are not limited to, thickening agents.

In various embodiments, the composition described herein may have a pH ranging from about 2 to about 9, such as about 3 to about 8, or about 4 to about 7.

In at least certain exemplary embodiments, the compositions are in the form of hair styling compositions, in any form, such as, for example, a gel, a cream, a foam, a lotion, an emulsion, or a liquid that may be sprayed onto or otherwise applied to the hair. In various embodiments, the composition may be provided in the form of a gel, a mousse, or a spray. In at least certain embodiments, the composition may be applied to the hair by first applying to the hands, and then contacting the hair with the hands; in other embodiments, the composition may be applied directly onto the hair, such as by spraying. The compositions may, in various embodiments, be applied to the hair as a leave-on treatment.

In various embodiments, the application of an external stimuli, such as heat, may be desirable as part of the hair styling process. By way of example only, before, during, or after the composition is applied to wet or dry hair, the hair may optionally be further treated with an external stimuli, for example with heat ranging from about 25° C. to about 250° C. In at least certain embodiments, the hair may also be shaped or positioned as desired while exposed to external stimuli, such as while heated or exposed to heat.

Professional and consumer heating tools can be used as a means to deliver heat or an elevated temperature to the hair. The heating tools can generate heat through electrical current or heating lamps. Depending upon the desired style, these tools include, but are not limited to, heaters, blow dryers, flat irons, hot combs, hot curler sets, steam pods, heated crimpers, heated lash curlers, heated wands/brushes, and hood driers or their combinations thereof.

As described, compositions according to the disclosure may impart a film on a substrate, such as on the hair or on the hand during or after application to the hair. A film formed by the composition may, surprisingly, be clean-feeling and not sticky, as with traditional hair styling compositions. Also surprisingly, the composition may impart a film on the hair that leaves the hair relatively natural and clean-feeling, yet has a flexible coating, leaving little to no residue, allows the hair to be bouncy and springy with little to no frizz or flaking, may impart relatively high definition with individualized curls, style control, volume, and shine, and/or may allow for relatively long-lasting hold and style memory. Furthermore, in at least certain embodiments according to the disclosure, the compositions are not sticky or tacky. A user of hair compositions according to various embodiments described herein may thus feel that the composition is not perceptible or is “invisible,” yet still effectively style and/or hold the hair. Additionally, the compositions may have effective hair styling and/or hold properties, even in conditions of high, or relatively high, humidity. In at least certain embodiments according to the disclosure, the compositions may be quick-drying, which may allow drying and/or styling time to be reduced, as well as further improve ease of styling and curl retention.

Furthermore, as described, compositions prepared according to various embodiments may provide for varying degrees of hold to be imparted to a hair style. By way of non-limiting example only, in order to obtain a spiky look to hair of a very short length, a high level of styling hold may be desirable. Or, as a further non-limiting example, in order to obtain a flowing look or to maintain hair curls for hair of medium length or longer length, a light to medium level of style hold may be desirable. By altering the weight ratio of the first and second polymers, it is possible to formulate compositions having high levels of style hold, medium to high levels of style hold, medium levels of style hold, or light to medium levels of style hold.

In at least certain embodiments, a film formed by the compositions described herein may be clear and/or stable. In such embodiments, phase separation and dramatic aggregation are minimized.

In addition, hair styled or treated with compositions according to the disclosure may, in at least certain exemplary embodiments, be hydrophobic, and/or may appear less frizzy and/or may be less prone to breakage, relative to hair subjected to the same conditions but not having been styled or treated with a composition according to the disclosure.

It should be noted, however, that compositions and films, as well as hair to which the composition or film has been applied, according to the disclosure may not have one or more of the herein-referenced properties, yet are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

Also disclosed herein are methods for styling the hair, said methods comprising applying a composition according to the disclosure to the hair, either before, during, or after styling the hair. One or more steps of treating the hair with an external stimuli, such as heat, before, during, or after the composition has been applied to the hair are also contemplated.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing description and the following Examples are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not to be interpreted as restrictive of the disclosure. Moreover, it should be understood that various features and/or characteristics of differing embodiments herein may be combined with one another. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the disclosure and practice of the various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

It is also to be understood that, as used herein the terms “the,” “a,” or “an,” mean “at least one,” and should not be limited to “only one” unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, the use of “a surfactant” is intended to mean at least one surfactant.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about,” whether or not so stated. The term “about” as it modifies numbers herein is meant to indicate a difference of 10% or less from the stated number, such as 9% or less, such as 8% or less, such as 7% or less, such as 6% or less, such as 5% or less, such as 4% or less, such as 3% or less, such as 2% or less, or such as 1% or less, in various exemplary embodiments. Thus, by way of example only, in one embodiment where “about” indicates a difference of 10% or less, the phrase “about 20%” is intended to encompass a range from 18%-22%. In another exemplary embodiment where “about” indicates a difference of 5% or less, the phrase “about 20%” is intended to encompass a range from 19%-21%. All such numbers within each specified range are hereby explicitly intended to be included in the disclosure.

It should also be understood that the precise numerical values used in the specification and claims form additional embodiments of the disclosure, and are intended to include any ranges which can be narrowed to any two end points disclosed within the exemplary ranges and values provided, as well as the specific end points themselves. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the numerical values disclosed herein. Any measured numerical value, however, can inherently contain certain errors resulting from the standard deviation found in its respective measuring technique.

EXAMPLES

The following Examples are intended to be non-restrictive and explanatory only, with the scope of the invention being defined by the claims.

Procedures

A. Procedures for Determination of Physical Properties of Films

Film Plating:

The latex film was obtained by allowing a 30 gram water solution containing 4 grams of the latex polymer(s) to dry slowly in a 100 mL PFA Petri dish (100 mm diameter×15 mm height) at room temperature for at least 3 days.

Film Measurement:

The latex film, with known dimensions (length, width, thickness), was mounted on the Q800 Dynamic Mechanical Analysis from TA Instrument, and tested in a DMA Control Force mode. The stress/strain test was obtained using the following procedure:

Preload force: 0.001 N

Isothermal: 25° C.

Soak time: 0.5 minutes

Force ramp rate: 0.5N/min to 18 N

The test ended when the sample broke, 18 N force was reached, or maximum displacement was achieved (25.5 mm).

From the stress/strain curve, the Young's Modulus was calculated as the slope of the linear portion at about 0.01% Strain to about 1% Strain. From the stress/strain curve, the % Strain at the stress of 0.5 MPa was also reported.

A high Young's Modulus demonstrates a hard film, while a lower Young's Modulus represents a more elastic film. A high Strain demonstrates a stretchy, elastic film, while a lower Strain represents a more brittle film.

B. Procedure for Determination of Mechanical Properties of Hair Treated with Latex Compositions

Hair Treatment:

A strip of regular bleached hair (from HIP, 7 cm long, about 0.5 g of hair) was treated with the latex solution (0.75 g of solution/g hair). The hair was combed through with a fine-toothed comb 10 times (10 seconds) on one side and 10 times (10 seconds) on the other side of the swatch until the solution was uniformly distributed over the surface of the tress. The treated hair was immediately mounted on the texture analyzer.

Hair Measurement:

Three-point bending measurements were conducted using a texture analyzer (Model TA-XT2, Texture Technologies Corporation) equipped with a hair mounting accessory as described in J. Cosmet. Sci., 53, 345-362 (November/December 2002). The cantilever bending experiment consisted of the following sequence of steps: the hair tress was placed on a 2-point of 4 cm width, and the probe, representing the third point, came down at the middle of the hair tress and performed a 2-mm deformation of the hair tress. The testing protocol was:

Test mode=Compression

Pre-test speed=2 mm/sec

Test speed=2 mm/sec

Post-test speed=2 mm/sec

Target mode=Distance

Distance=2 mm

Count=10

Trigger type=Auto (Force)

Trigger force=1 g

After finishing 20 cycles of deformations (also referred to as “bending”), a plot of force as a function of time of 20 deformations was generated. From the plot, the maximum force required for each deformation was determined, and the percent increase in the force from the initial force to the last force was calculated. This represents the increase in the hold of the hair.

A new plot of the maximum force vs. time was then generated. From that plot, a linear regression (R²) was performed and the linear equation was calculated. The slope of the linear regression represents the degree or amount change of maximum force over time, referred to herein as “hardening rate.” The hardening rate is also an indication of the degree of resistance of the hair or hair fibers to the maximum force applied to the hair.

C. Procedure for Determination of Curl Retention in High Humidity of Hair Treated with Latex Compositions

Hair Treatment:

Regular bleached hair swatch (from HIP, 14.5 cm long, about 0.5 g) was treated with a solution of 2% latex polymers (0.5 g solution/g hair). The hair was combed until the solution was uniformly distributed over the hair swatch surface. The treated hair was then rolled onto a spiral rod (0.5 in diameter) and allowed to dry at room temperature overnight.

Curl Retention Measurement:

The coiled hair was removed from the rod and placed in the humidity chamber at 95% RH, 25° C. for 24 hours. The Curl Retention was calculated as:

(Lo−Lf)/(Lo−Li)×100

wherein Lo=fully extended hair length, Li=initial coiled hair length before humidity exposure, and Lf=final hair length after 24 hours exposure.

Compositions containing latex polymers were evaluated according to the methods described above. The weight of each latex polymer in the following examples is determined on a dry weight basis.

Example 1 Evaluation of Effects of Coalescing Agents/Plasticizers on Hardening Rate

Hair tresses were treated with compositions containing NEOREZ® R989 (INCI name: Polycarbamyl Polyglycon Ester, Young's Modulus of 654 MPa and strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of 0.07%) and BAYCUSAN® C1001 (INCI name: Polyurethane-34, Young's Modulus of 3 MPa and strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of 18.82%) in a combined weight of 2% and at 1:1 latex polymer ratio and 0%, 0.3% and 0.6% of DOWANOL™ PnB (INCI name: Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (and) Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether (and) BHT). The film hardening rates are shown below in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Coalescing Slope Range Increase Sample Agent (hardening rate) R² (g) in Force 1a   0% 0.2755 0.99 7.17-17.28 140% 1b 0.3% 0.3706 0.98 8.73-23.34 167% 1c 0.6% 0.4476 0.99 7.35-24.27 230%

These results show that when the coalescing agent is present in the composition containing the two latex polymers, the % increase in the force required to deform or bend the hair and the hardening rates were higher than those obtained for hair treated with a composition containing only the two latex polymers.

These results also show that as the amount of the coalescing agent in the latex solution increases, the percent increase in the force required to deform or bend the hair and the hardening rates increased.

Example 2 Evaluation of High Humidity Curl Retention

Hair swatches were treated with compositions containing NEOREZ® R989 and BAYCUSAN® C1001 in a combined weight of 2% and at 1:1 latex polymer ratio and 0%, 0.3% and 0.6% of DOWANOL™ PNB. The high humidity curl retention results are shown in Table 2 below.

TABLE 2 Coalescing Curl Retention Sample Agent (%) 2a   0% 73 2b 0.3% 75 2c 0.6% 75

These results show that addition of the coalescing agent improved the curl retention at high humidity at the hardening rates shown, compared to compositions not comprising coalescing agents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A hair styling composition comprising at least two latex polyurethane polymers and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers, wherein at least one latex polyurethane polymer is a film-forming polymer, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are chosen from: (a) polymer A, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; (b) polymer B, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%; and (c) polymer C, chosen from non-film-forming latex polyurethane polymers; wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition; and wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in the composition in a weight ratio ranging from about 10:1 to about 1:10.
 2. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are, independently or together, dispersed particles in an aqueous dispersion medium.
 3. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 4. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 1% to about 5% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 5. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 1% to about 3% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 6. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two latex polyurethane polymers is present in individual amounts ranging from about 0.05% to about 10% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 7. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two latex polyurethane polymers is present in individual amounts ranging from about 1% to about 15% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 8. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 1:5 to about 5:1.
 9. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 1:3 to about 3:1.
 10. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 1:2 to about 2:1.
 11. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B is about 1:1.
 12. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 1:10 to about 1:1.
 13. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 3:1 to about 10:1.
 14. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the weight ratio of polymer A to polymer B ranges from about 5:1 to about 10:1.
 15. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is present in a total amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 20% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 16. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is present in a total amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition.
 17. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is chosen from glycol ethers, glycol esters, sucrose esters, propylene glycol ethers and propylene glycol esters.
 18. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers is chosen from propylene glycol dibenzoate, dipropylene glycol dibenzoate, and propylene glycol butyl ether. The hair styling composition of claim 1, further comprising at least one solvent.
 19. The hair styling composition of claim 1, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are chosen from: (a) polymer A, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; and (b) polymer B, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%.
 20. A method of styling the hair, said method comprising applying a composition comprising at least two latex polyurethane polymers and at least one component chosen from coalescing agents and plasticizers to the hair, wherein at least one latex polyurethane polymer is a film-forming polymer, wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are chosen from: (a) polymer A, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 0.1 MPa to about 10 MPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of at least about 1%; (b) polymer B, having a Young's modulus ranging from about 10 MPa to about 6 GPa, and a strain, under stress at 0.5 MPa, of less than about 5%; and (c) polymer C, chosen from non-film-forming latex polyurethane polymers; wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in a combined amount ranging from about 0.1% to about 30% by weight, relative to the weight of the composition; and wherein the at least two latex polyurethane polymers are present in the composition in a weight ratio ranging from about 10:1 to about 1:10.
 21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising a step of treating the hair with heat at a temperature ranging from about 25° C. to about 250° C. before, during, or after the application of said composition. 